Barbara Jean Gervase, age 86, of Indian Head Park (formerly of La Grange Park), passed away on May 29, 2025. Beloved wife of Samuel Leonard Gervase (late), loving mother of Debbie (Corey) Noble of Indian Head Park; Laura (Rick) Kigin of Mendota Heights, MN; and Steve (Sheila) Gervase of Davenport, IA. Predeceased by her sister, Phyllis Cahill; nephew, Rick Cahill; and parents, Ruth and Richard Riggs.

Born in 1938 in Normal, IL, Barbara, known fondly as “Bobbie,” was the second child of Ruth and Dick Riggs. The family settled in La Grange Park when she was in 5th grade, where she attended Ogden Avenue Elementary and Oak Avenue Schools, and later served as the Ogden Avenue School secretary for 21 years.

She lived a full life right alongside her soulmate, Sam. They were Lyons Township High School sweethearts, class of 1956, and that was only the beginning of their story. Married for 57 years, they raised their family and together traveled across the U.S. and around the world. Barb’s favorite spot was always Unit #38 at Lahaina Inn Resort in Fort Myers Beach, FL.

In 2006, she and Sam moved to the Acacia Condominiums where she served multiple terms on the Acacia Condominium Board and treasured all the friends she made there.

Barb was an avid reader, enjoyed swimming and long walks on the beach, but most of all spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In addition to her children, Barb is survived by her grandchildren, Jessica (Ryan) Galloway, Ben Noble, Cassie (Tim) Malhosky, Angi (Chris) Schrom, Kyle (Kayla and Landon) Kigin, Cody (Faith) Kigin, Sam (Chase) Gervase, Jake (Hailey) Gervase, Clare Gervase, and Molly Gervase (Nick); and her great-grandchildren, Lily and Julia Galloway, Quinn and Hannah Malhosky, Sheppard Shrom, Ellis and Andi Gervase; her brother, David (Linda) Riggs, and many nieces and nephews.

While it was only for a short time, she was lovingly cared for at home by Advocate Hospice, and Barb and her family could not have made this journey without them. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Advocate Hospice or a charity of your choice. A gathering to celebrate Barb’s life is being planned for the fall.